In open-plan Build-to-Rent homes, calm has become a premium. Discover how acoustic-led design, enveloping furniture and thoughtful zoning can transform multifunctional layouts into restorative sanctuaries.
Build-to-Rent Coppermaker Square project, London
Open-plan layouts are a defining feature of contemporary Build-to-Rent developments. Designed to maximise space, light and flexibility, these multifunctional interiors must support everything from entertaining and dining to working and unwinding — often within a single footprint.
Yet as homes become more open, the need for calm becomes more pronounced. In a world of constant noise and digital distraction, acoustic comfort and moments of pause are now seen as a new luxury. For BTR developers and designers, this presents an opportunity to elevate interiors by creating mindful, restorative zones within open-plan spaces.
Rather than subdividing interiors with walls, today’s most successful open-plan homes embrace soft zoning. Through the considered use of furniture, textiles and layout, designers can create acoustic sanctuaries — calm corners that absorb sound and invite residents to slow down.
Soft materials, rounded forms and enveloping silhouettes help reduce noise while maintaining the openness that modern living demands. These zones support wellbeing, offering residents a sense of retreat within a shared, multifunctional environment.
As René Hougaard, designer of the Aarhus collection, explains: “It’s about designing spaces that invite moments of pause, reflection and sensory engagement.”
Build-to-Rent Tenitt project in Berlin, featuring open plan living
Furniture plays a central role in defining calm within open-plan BTR homes. Enveloping accent chairs can create visual and acoustic anchors — forming an “island of comfort” within a multifunctional layout.
Designed by Morten Georgsen, the Bolzano armchair combines soft organic shapes with clean, minimal lines, creating a cocooning yet timeless expression. Elegant and highly comfortable, it works seamlessly alongside the Bolzano sofa or as a standalone piece to define a restorative corner.
This approach is exemplified at Tenitt, Berlin, where the Bolzano sofa and armchair are used to anchor the open-plan living area. Paired with the Form rug, the space is subtly sectioned from the dining zone, creating a calm, acoustically softened environment while preserving openness and flow.
For a more sculptural statement, the Ø lounge chair, designed by Helena Christensen, offers a curved, oversized silhouette inspired by Denmark’s many small islands. Wrapping the body in soft cushions, Ø creates an inviting retreat — a personal moment of calm within a shared space.
Acoustic comfort is further enhanced through materiality. Layered rugs, upholstered seating and tactile textiles help absorb noise while adding warmth and depth to open-plan interiors.
These elements also support durability and longevity, balancing practical requirements with a refined, residential feel. Textured layers play a key role in creating spaces that feel calm, comfortable and considered.
Build-to-Rent UNCLE Acton project
In an increasingly competitive BTR market, interiors that prioritise wellbeing stand apart. Soft materials, rounded forms and thoughtful zoning offer an antidote to constant noise and stimulation — transforming open-plan homes into places of stillness and comfort.
By creating acoustic sanctuaries within multifunctional layouts, BTR developments can deliver spaces that feel not only functional, but emotionally engaging — supporting modern living while offering moments of mindful calm.
To discuss how we can help you furnish your upcoming projects, come and visit our office on Tottenham Court Road flagship showroom, call us on 020 7383 3226, or email tradeenquiries@boconcept.co.uk—our team will be happy to help.
Discover our full scope of BTR services by downloading our latest BTR brochure here.
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